So, you’ve decided to propose - how exciting! Now comes the next big question: how do you choose the perfect engagement ring?

At EF Studios, we’re here to guide you through the entire process - from setting a budget and choosing your diamond shape to deciding on metal and design. Whether you're after a timeless solitaire, a bespoke modern heirloom, or something completely unexpected, we’ll help you create the ring that tells your story.

Step One: Set Your Budget

Before you start dreaming of diamonds and designs, take a moment to set a realistic budget. This will help guide decisions around carat weight, metal type, and whether to opt for natural or lab-grown stones. At EF Studios, we offer expert guidance on how to get the most value - without compromising on beauty or meaning.

Step Two: Choose Your Diamond Shape

The shape of your diamond is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make - it influences both the look and the cost of your ring.

• Round Brilliant: The most classic and sparkly cut, known for maximum brilliance. It’s timeless, elegant, and always in style.

• Oval, Pear & Marquise: These ‘fancy’ shapes create an elongating effect on the finger and can appear larger per carat. Ideal if you’re after something a little different, yet still refined.

• Emerald Cut: Understated glamour with its art deco lines and mirror-like sparkle. This step-cut diamond is perfect for someone drawn to clean, architectural beauty.

Step Three: Consider Your Setting Style

The setting is what holds your stone and defines the personality of your ring:

• Prong/Solitaire Setting: Maximises light reflection and sparkle. A classic choice that showcases the stone beautifully.

• Bezel Setting: A sleek, modern frame that encases the diamond - offering the most secure and practical option for everyday wear.

• Trilogy or Toi et Moi: For those seeking symbolism and design-driven shapes, these styles allow for layered meaning and visual balance.

High vs. Low Setting:
Choosing between a high or low set stone can affect both wearability and how your wedding band will stack.

• A low setting offers comfort and a streamlined silhouette - great for modern designs like trilogy or Toi et Moi rings.

• A high setting lifts the stone to allow a wedding band to sit flush beneath it - ideal for classic solitaire rings.

Step Four: Select Your Metal

The metal you choose will define the tone and wearability of your ring.

• Platinum: Durable, hypoallergenic and naturally white in colour. It’s our go-to for cool-toned metals with minimal upkeep.

• White Gold: Bright and crisp, but requires rhodium plating upkeep. At EF Studios, we typically recommend platinum if you want a long-lasting cool-toned look.

• Yellow Gold: A rich, timeless choice that suits almost all skin tones. We offer both 14k and 18k options - 14k being slightly lighter toned, while 18k offers a deeper yellow hue.

Step Five: Bespoke or Ready-to-Craft?

At EF Studios, every engagement ring is crafted to order. Whether you select a design from our signature collections or work with us to create something bespoke, we tailor each piece to your love story. For many of our clients, heirloom diamonds or gemstones are incorporated into the design - making it truly one-of-a-kind.

Still unsure where to begin?

We’d love to guide you in person or virtually. Book a private consultation to view our diamond selection, explore design styles, and start crafting your forever piece.

At EF Studios, we believe your engagement ring should be as unique as your story - a modern heirloom, made just for you.